SafeWork SA is warning businesses about the incorrect use of flammable liquids in enclosed settings after a worker sustained serious burns while completing repair works to a generator, located in a hatch below a houseboat rear deck.

The worker was using a flammable aerosol cleaning product during the repair which ignited causing severe injuries.  A quick-thinking member of the public used a fire extinguisher, located on the deck, to extinguish the fire within the hatch.

The risk of flammable vapour near ignition sources is a significant concern in many workplaces due to the potential for fire or explosion. Flammable products that are required to be used in enclosed areas or areas with poor ventilation need to be reconsidered and substituted for a less hazardous products.

Safety solutions

A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must establish safe systems of work. This can be demonstrated by:

1. Identification

   Identifying hazards and indicate what can cause harm (flammable products used, inadequate ventilation, working in enclosed spaces, ignition sources).

2. Assessment

   Assess risks – understand the nature of the harm that may be caused by the hazards identified, their importance and likelihood of occurring.

3. Control Measures

   Control risks – implement reasonably practicable control measures (consider alternate products that are not flammable, ensure ventilation requirements occur, follow manufacturers guidelines for appropriate use of products).

4. Review Control Measures

Review systems in place to ensure that they are working effectively and not introducing further hazards or risks.

Further information:

https://www.safework.sa.gov.au/workplaces/managing-risk

https://www.safework.sa.gov.au/workplaces/chemicals-substances-and-explosives/airborne-contaminants

https://www.safework.sa.gov.au/workers/personal-protective-equipment